Nnaji said in a statement in Lagos that continuity and making the aviation a substantive ministry was good for the industry.
The lawmaker, representing Nkanu East and West Federal Constituency in Enugu State, urged Sirika to hit the ground running as he was already familiar with the terrains.
“There are so much to be done within a short time to prepare the industry for the challenges posed by the emerging African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“So, we don’t need a new person that will require a lot of time to learn the ropes,” he said.
Nnaji also said he was happy that the minister was coming at the time the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) was beginning the reconstruction of the Enugu Airport Runway.
He urged the minister to use his knowledge as a seasoned expert in the industry to ensure that the right things were done immediately because of the importance of the airport to the South&East region.
“I am sure he will be interested in finding out how the Enugu Airport runway failed within six years of inauguration.
“I believe he will assist our committee in unraveling the circumstances that led to the collapse of the runway during our investigation,” the lawmaker said.
Nnaji assured Sirika of his committee’s cooperation toward providing a safe, viable and reliable air transport industry for the country.
According to him, the appointment of Sirika as a substantive Minister of Aviation will enable him to focus on the aviation industry.
The aviation committee chairman further made case for adequate funding of the industry because of its strategic role in stimulating the nation’s economy.
He also expressed concern over the glaring dominance of foreign airlines on the nation’s major international routes.
Nnaji said that the legislative arm of government would work closely with the executive arm of government to correct the imbalance
